The two-day international conference, Envisioning Early Childhood Development Ecosystem in Nepal, began on December 6, 2024, at Purbanchal University's Faculty of Education in Biratnagar. The event was inaugurated addressed by Honorable Hikmat Karki, Chief Minister of Koshi Province, Nepal. Social Development Minister Mr. Pach Karna Rai also addressed the conference. Organized under the patronage of Vice Chancellor Prof. Dr. Biju Kumar Thapalia, the conference highlights the university's commitment to academic and research excellence. Dean Prof. Dr. Anil Kumar Pokharel welcomed the participants, stressing the importance of collaboration to improve child health, education, nutrition, and family support systems. Keynote speakers, including Prof. Karen Graham, Ms. Chirashree Ghosh, Dr. Meenakshi Dahal, and Dr. Aruna Uprety, shared valuable insights on innovative strategies and evidence-based practices in early childhood development. Special attendees included Prof. Dr. Mahesh Raj Dahal, Chairperson of the PU Service Commission; Nilmani Pokharel, Registrar of Purbanchal University; along with deans and university officials. The conference also features workshops and 50 research paper presentations, with scholars and experts from Nepal, India, Bangladesh, the USA, and the UK, promoting international academic exchange with more than 250 participants and invitees.
